Raiders runs past New England 20-13

Pete Carroll’s formula for success was on full display in his Raiders debut, as the team secured a 20-13 victory over the Patriots in a rain-soaked game at Gillette Stadium. Trailing 10-7 at halftime, the Raiders rallied in the second half, outscoring New England 13-3. Quarterback Geno Smith delivered an impressive performance, throwing for 362 yards and a touchdown, while rookie Ashton Jeanty scored his first NFL touchdown.

The Raiders’ defense stepped up in the second half, applying consistent pressure and forcing the Patriots to go 4-of-14 on third down. New England managed just 60 rushing yards, while Drake Maye threw for 287 yards and a touchdown but was intercepted by Isaiah Pola-Mao, leading to the Raiders’ go-ahead score.

Smith’s composure was evident late in the game, as he connected with Dont’e Thornton on a 36-yard pass to seal the victory. The win marked Carroll’s 25th victory in 36 attempts when bringing a team three time zones east for a 10 a.m. PT kickoff, underscoring his ability to prepare and energize his team for challenging road games.

This victory highlighted Carroll's mastery in adapting to challenging conditions and maximizing his team's potential on the road. It demonstrated the effectiveness of his coaching philosophy, combining a strong defensive showing with an efficient offense under pressure. The win not only boosted the Raiders' confidence but also set a positive tone for the rest of the season.